Janina Rosińska Obituary, Death: Polish Running Champion Who Won European Masters Title at 89 Dies
POLAND — The athletics community is mourning the death of Janina Rosińska, a Polish runner who captured a European Masters championship title at the remarkable age of 89.
Rosińska, a retired geography teacher, became an inspiration to spectators and fellow athletes through her continued dedication to running well into her late 80s.
Janina Rosińska’s Remarkable European Championship Victory
In April 2026, Rosińska competed at the European Masters Championships in Toruń, Poland, where she was the only athlete competing in the 85-and-over age category.
Despite being just weeks away from her 90th birthday, she completed the 200-meter sprint in 61 seconds, earning the title in her age group and receiving cheers from spectators.
Her achievement was particularly notable because Rosińska competed while wearing a pacemaker, making her determination to remain active in athletics even more remarkable.
Her performance demonstrated that age did not prevent her from pursuing a passion that had brought her to the track and inspired others.
Remembering Janina Rosińska
Beyond her athletic achievement, Rosińska was remembered as a positive presence within her community.
She was a member of the University of the Third Age in Łask, an organization that provides activities and supports the wellbeing of older adults.
Following her death, the organization paid tribute to Rosińska, remembering her smile, presence and the inspiration she provided to others.
Her story resonated far beyond the results of a single race. By continuing to compete at an age when many people have long since stepped away from organized sport, she demonstrated determination, vitality and a commitment to staying active.
Key Details
Detail Information
Name Janina Rosińska
Age 89
Nationality Polish
Profession Retired geography teacher
Sport Running / athletics
Major achievement European Masters champion
Championship location Toruń, Poland
Event 200-meter sprint
Time 61 seconds
Age category 85+
Notable detail Competed while wearing a pacemaker
Community organization University of the Third Age in Łask
Cause of death Not publicly provided
A Lasting Legacy
Janina Rosińska’s final years were marked by an extraordinary commitment to athletics. Her European Masters victory shortly before her 90th birthday became a memorable example of determination and perseverance.
For those who knew her through the University of the Third Age and the wider athletics community, her passing represents the loss of a woman whose presence and achievements inspired others.
The organization remembered her with words of gratitude, expressing that she would be deeply missed and thanking her for the moments shared, her smile and the inspiration she gave to others.
Details regarding Rosińska’s cause of death, funeral arrangements and memorial services were not provided in the information available.
Janina Rosińska will be remembered not only as a European Masters champion, but as an inspiring athlete who continued to pursue her passion for running at an extraordinary age. May she rest in peace.
